No culture has yet solved the dilemma each has faced with the growth of a conscious mind: how to live a moral and compassionate existence when one is fully aware of the blood, the horror inherent in all life, when one finds darkness not only in one's own culture but within oneself... There are simply no answers to some of the great pressing questions. You continue to live them out, making your life a worthy expression of a leaning into the light.

Barry Lopez

Related Quotes

We simply do not understand our place in the universe and have not the courage to admit it

— Barry Lopez

There's so much to be afraid of.

— Barry Lopez

When I sit at that typewriter, I have to be frightened of what I'm trying to do. I'm frightened by my own belief that I can actually get a story down on paper.

— Barry Lopez

ActuallyBeliefDown

People think that if you've written a book and somebody's given you a pat on the back then, you know, it's all - you're all settled, you know? You're going to be fine. I know that if I'm not confused, and really afraid, my work isn't going to be any good.

— Barry Lopez

My function as a writer is to provide an atmosphere in which people can think wisely about what we're doing on this planet.

— Barry Lopez

AboutAtmosphereDoing